Senator Gallivan and Assemblywoman Peoples-Stokes Announce Funding for Legal Services for the Elderly

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) and Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes are announcing important state funding for the Center for Elder Law and Justice to provide legal help to seniors and to help combat elder abuse throughout Western New York. A total of $250,000 is included in the 2017-2018 budget approved by the Legislature in April.

“We have a responsibility to protect our seniors from abuse and exploitation,” Gallivan said. “People 65 years of age and older make up the fastest growing segment of our population and unfortunately, cases of elder abuse are on the rise. We need to ensure that services are in place to assist victims of all forms of elder abuse, be it financial, psychological or physical.”

Senator Gallivan secured $150,000 in funding through the State Senate. The rest came through the State Assembly.

“I am happy to announce that the Assembly was able to secure $100,000 in the 2017-2018 budget for the Center for Elder Law and Justice. This organization continues to do great work on behalf of our most vulnerable residents. We appreciate the work that they do to protect our seniors, this funding will allow them to continue that dedicated service,” stated Assemblywoman Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes.

The Center for Elder Law and Justice provides elder abuse prevention training, as well as direct legal and social services to elder abuse victims in Erie, Wyoming, Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Genesee, Niagara and Orleans counties.

“The inclusion of funding for our elder abuse prevention services creates a lifeline for victims of elder abuse in Western New York,” said Karen Nicolson, Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Elder Law and Justice. “Seniors who have been abused or financially exploited will have access to an attorney to help them escape abusive situations, advocate for better outcomes in court, and reduce the likelihood of future abuse. We are incredibly grateful that Senator Gallivan and Assemblywoman Peoples-Stokes have been champions for this important issue that affects over 260,000 older New Yorkers.”